Two-thirds of Filipino children own a mobile phone

The Cartoon Network’s ‘New Generations’ study showed phone ownership among Filipino children has leapt by 71 per cent since 2009, with 65 per cent of 7-year-olds and 14-year-olds now owning a mobile phone.

The Cartoon Network said the findings position the Philippines as one of the most connected countries in Asia-Pacific.

The survey showed more than half of children from urban centers across the Philippines now live in internet-enabled homes, a 66 per cent increase over the past three years. The mobile phone is now a nearly ubiquitous device, seen in 98 per cent of homes.

The stiudy added that gaming continues to be the top internet pastime among Filipino children, with 58 per cent of internet users playing games daily. But social networks are also gaining traction, with half of the children surveyed logging in every day.

"The findings show young Pinoys not only have the know-how in the digital space, but increasingly have the tools to consume and experience media across multiple platforms—from TV to PC, from their tablet to phone,” said Duncan Morris, vice president of research and market development at Turner International Asia-Pacific.